Honestly, it is difficult to tell what the lump is without a proper biopsy. Get it tested.
I know an older guy with a lump on his side of the neck that's been there for many years, but it does not appear to bother him.
You're right about the worst-case scenario, most tend to self-diagnose without proper testing to accurately guess the proper diagnosis.
If you had scoliosis without alternative treatments when you were younger - I wish your guardians/parents found an alternative to surgery. Diet can heal scoliosis, genetics can be detrimental to it, and chiropractors can help realign the spine.